Hughes looks for goals to survive

The arrival of Djibril Cisse and Bobby Zamora on the final day of the transfer window remarkably means Mark Hughes has nine strikers to call upon at any given time in the fight for Premier League survival.

A number have failed this season to find the net notably Jay Bothroyd who just does not seem able to cut in the top flight, following his summer move from Cardiff. DJ Campbell showed last season showed that he knows where the net is last season having fired thirteen goals in an impressive first full season at the highest level. At first glimpse he looked a shrewd acquisition by Neil Warnock but has been beset by injuries and has struggled for a run in the team on his return.

Bobby Zamora

Heidar Helguson has carried the burden this season, the Icelandic international has bagged eight league goals and once in the FA Cup, but at the age of 34 his best years are behind him.

The opening of the window kicked off with the arrival of Federico Macheda from Manchester United on loan but he has struggled to impress and has lost his way following his great start to life in English football. A return to Manchester United will be on the cards for the Italian youngster, followed by a swift move back to his homeland in the summer.

As for the others injuries have played a huge part and a lack of consistency in the forward line selection resulted in the lack of goals and ultimately Warnock’s job. Jamie Mackie has impressed but cannot be relied upon to score.

Rob Hulse’s surprise selection at Villa Park on Wednesday raised a few eyebrows but according to sources close to the club he has been ‘flying’ in training and will be another key option for Hughes and his team to call upon during the run in.

Jay Bothroyd

There is no doubt that Zamora and Cisse are the men Hughes will entrust with the job of finding the back of the net and secure a mid table finish come May.

Today's game at home to Wolves is a massive game for all concerned. Wolves have endured a torrid run of late, without a win since the first weekend in December in the league and with their second half collapse against Liverpool prompting fury amongst the fans; they are there for the taking.  

Zamora will be paired with his new strike partner for the first time and they could not have asked for a better game to start with. A run of three home games in their next four and a trip to Blackburn could see them move clear.

Both players are controversial and have had issues throughout their careers’ but together they can be lethal and will do the business for QPR as they look to secure survival and then establish themselves as a force.